Catheters and catheter mating devices and systems

ABSTRACT

Described is a catheter for being retained inside the body for extended periods, and a catheter mating device that can connect to the catheter to move the catheter inside of the body or remove it from the body. The catheter mating device has a stem with an apparatus at its distal end. The apparatus is moveable between a first position and a second position. When in its first position, the distal end is configured to fit in the proximal end of the catheter. When in its second position, the distal end engages the proximal end of the catheter and connects the catheter mating device to the catheter.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation in part of, and claims priority to, U.S. application Ser. No. 15/072,345 to Herrera et al., entitled Extended-Use Valved Urinary Catheter filed on Mar. 16, 2016, which is a continuation in part of and claims priority to PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US2016/014648 entitled Bladder Management Systems filed on Jan. 23, 2016, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/141,520 filed Apr. 1, 2015, U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/231,854 filed Jul. 16, 2015, U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/275,671 filed Jan. 6, 2016, and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/279,485, filed Jan. 15, 2016. This application is also a continuation in part of, and claims priority to U.S. National Phase application Ser. No. 15/545,903 to Herrera et al., entitled Bladder Management System filed Jul. 24, 2017, which claims priority to PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US2016/014648 filed Jan. 23, 2016, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/107,203, filed Jan. 23, 2015, U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/141,520, filed Apr. 4, 2015, U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/231,854, filed Jul. 16, 2015, U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/275,671, filed Jan. 6, 2016, and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/279,485, filed Jan. 15, 2016. This application is also a continuation in part of, and claims priority to U.S. application Ser. No. 15/721,096 to Herrera et al. entitled Urinary Prosthesis Systems filed on Sep. 29, 2017, which is a divisional of, and claims priority to, U.S. application Ser. No. 15/419,948 (Now U.S. Pat. No. 9,775,698) entitled Urinary Prosthesis Systems and filed on Jan. 30, 2017, which is a Continuation in part of PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US2016/014648 filed on Jan. 23, 2016, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/107,203, filed Jan. 23, 2015. Each of the foregoing applications is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

This disclosure relates to devices, systems and methods that can be used for bladder management, such as an extended-use catheter, and devices that can connect to the extended use catheter in order to position it in a body and/or remove it from a body.

BACKGROUND

Many people suffer from lower urinary tract dysfunction, also known as neurogenic bladder. Neurogenic bladder can be defined as impaired urinary function due to neurological injury or disease, such as spinal cord injury (SCI). Current methods for managing neurogenic bladder and other chronic urinary retention disorders are to drain the bladder using (a) intermittent catheterization (IC), or (b) indwelling Foley catheters. These methods, however, are associated with relatively high rates of urinary tract infection and genito-urinary (GU) injury, each of which diminishes a patient's quality of life. Furthermore, because some individuals with neurogenic bladder lack bladder sensation, and thus cannot accurately perceive bladder fullness, they are susceptible to bladder over-filling. This can result in urinary “accidents” and/or urinary reflux, and urinary reflux presents a risk of infection and tissue damage to the upper urinary tract.

To avoid these problems, individuals with neurogenic bladder on an IC program commonly rely on a timed catheterization schedule. This approach is imprecise and may lead to catheterization more frequently than necessary, which can increase the risk of infection and GU injury. Therefore, it is desirable to provide an improved urinary prosthesis that helps to alleviate one or all of the preceding problems.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to devices, systems and methods for extended-use bladder management and controlling urinary function for humans or other animals. The disclosed devices, systems, and methods may be used for fluid flow control for other bodily organs as well, such as kidneys, or draining abscesses or fluids from a body, and the description herein for bladder-control use is not limiting.

Disclosed is an extended-use catheter configured for being retained inside of the body. The catheter can be used, for example, in the human male urinary tract. When in use, it is preferably positioned fully inside of, and retained in, the urethra and bladder. In one embodiment, the catheter comprises an elongated tube having a wall with an outer surface, and a lumen through which fluid, such as urine, can pass. Positioned on, or formed as part of, the tube wall is a retainer portion with a cross-sectional area greater than the cross-sectional area of the outer surface of the tube wall. When the catheter is properly positioned in the urinary tract, the retainer portion is positioned in the bulbar urethra, where it aids in the proper positioning of the catheter and helps prevent the catheter from inadvertently moving forward or backward.

A catheter according to this disclosure could be periodically inserted, removed, and replaced by the user without medical assistance or the aid of another individual, which is convenient and saves time and medical expense. Such a catheter could remain in the body for days or weeks without being removed, which alleviates the problem of catheterization multiple times per day.

The catheter preferably includes a valve, wherein the valve can be operated to: (a) allow fluid to exit the proximal end of the catheter, where it can exit the body, or (b) prevent the flow of fluid out of the proximal end of the catheter. The valve is most preferably a magnetic valve controlled from outside of the body using a wireless controller that generates a wireless signal to the valve to open or close.

A catheter mating device configured to engage and move the catheter is also disclosed and may be part of a system according to aspects of the invention. The catheter mating device has a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end is configured to connect to the proximal end of the catheter, and includes an apparatus moveable between: (a) a first position, wherein the apparatus is retracted, and (b) a second position, wherein the apparatus is expanded. When in the first position, the apparatus is configured to fit into the lumen (or a mating chamber of the catheter) at the proximal end of the catheter. Once placed in the lumen, the apparatus can be moved to its second position, wherein the apparatus expands until it presses against and engages the wall of the lumen (or inner wall of the mating chamber). That connects the catheter mating device to the catheter, and the catheter can then be pushed into, or removed from a body structure, such as a bladder and urethra by, respectively, pushing or pulling the catheter mating device. Thus, the catheter mating device can be used to: (a) accurately place the catheter inside of a body, and/or (b) remove the catheter from a body.

The catheter may be configured to include one or more sensors, which may be on, inside of, or embedded in material forming the catheter, or partially or entirely within the lumen. The one or more sensors can be at any suitable location on the catheter, such as at a position where they are positioned in the bladder when the catheter is properly positioned in the lower urinary tract of a human male. The one or more sensors could collect any relevant data, such as fluid pressure in the bladder, pH level of fluid, volume of urine in the bladder, and/or amount of blood or bacteria in urine. The one or more sensors could communicate with other devices, such as CT scanners, ultrasound devices, x-ray machines, electronic data storage devices, computers, cell phones, the wireless controller, the catheter mating device and/or sensors placed in toilets. The data collected by the sensors could be stored, analyzed and/or transmitted by a device including software configured for these functions.

Because the catheter can remain in the body for long periods, a sensor on the catheter can gather and send data over the entire period the catheter is in the body, as opposed to gathering data only at a specific time, such as when a patent is at a doctor's office or hospital.

A catheter according to aspects of the invention could also include one or more antennas to communicate with the one or more sensors, and transmit data collected by the one or more sensors. The catheter could have a second lumen that includes one or more antennas and one or more catheters.

As used herein, the term “user” means any person able to insert and/or remove a catheter as disclosed herein, and includes a patient, doctor, caregiver, and nurse. “Patient” means a person that uses a catheter as disclosed herein in his/her body. “Lower urinary tract” refers collectively to the urinary bladder and urethra. “Extended use” means a catheter that can be used without having to remove it from the body more than once every two days or longer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of an exemplary catheter, with an open view at its proximal end.

FIG. 1A is a cross-sectional view of the tube of the catheter of FIG. 1 taken along lines 1A-1A.

FIG. 2 shows the catheter of FIG. 1 positioned in the lower urinary tract of a human male.

FIG. 3A is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a catheter retainer portion according to aspects of the invention.

FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the catheter retainer portion of FIG. 3A taken along lines 3A-3A.

FIG. 3C is a side, perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a catheter retainer portion according to aspects of the invention.

FIG. 3D is a side, perspective view of an alternative exemplary embodiment of a catheter according to aspects of the invention that has a plurality of retainer portions.

FIG. 3E is a side, perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a catheter according to aspects of the invention that has a plurality of retainer portions

FIG. 4 is a close-up, open view of the proximal end of the catheter of FIG. 1 showing a valve.

FIGS. 4A-4C show the valve of FIG. 4 and components of the valve.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary embodiment of a wireless valve wireless controller.

FIG. 6 is a top view of an exemplary catheter mating device.

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the catheter mating device of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a side, perspective, close-up view of the distal end of the stem of the catheter mating device of FIG. 6.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are front views of the distal end of the stem of the catheter mating device of FIG. 6.

FIGS. 8C and 8D are partial, side views of the distal end of the stem of the catheter mating device of FIG. 6.

FIG. 9 is a top view of the catheter mating device of FIG. 6 (with the apparatus in its first, retracted position) being aligned with the catheter of FIG. 1.

FIG. 10 is another top view of catheter mating device of FIG. 6 (with the apparatus in its first, retracted position) being aligned with the catheter of FIG. 1.

FIG. 11 is a side, open view of the catheter mating device of FIG. 6 (with the apparatus in its first, retracted position) with its distal end positioned in the lumen at the proximal end of the catheter of FIG. 1.

FIG. 12 is a side view of an exemplary catheter that has one or more sensors, with an open view at its proximal end.

FIG. 13 is a side view of an exemplary catheter having two lumens, with an open view at its proximal end.

FIGS. 14A and 14B are cross-sectional views of exemplary catheters with two lumens.

FIG. 15 shows the catheter mating device of FIG. 6 (with the apparatus in its second, expanded position) engaged with the catheter of FIG. 1.

FIG. 16 shows the catheter mating device of FIG. 6 being aligned with the catheter of FIG. 1 when the catheter is positioned in the lower urinary tract of a human male.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Extended-Use Catheter

Turning now to the Figures, wherein the purpose is to describe preferred embodiments and not to limit the scope of the invention, FIG. 1 shows an exemplary catheter 10 according to aspects of the invention. Catheter 10 is an extended use catheter, and can be shaped and sized to be introduced into, and retained in, the lower urinary tract of a human male. As shown in FIG. 2, catheter 10 can extend from the bladder 2050 to a portion of the urethra 2600 distal to the prostate and distal to the bulbar urethra. Catheter 10 as shown in FIG. 2 extends past the prostate and the external urinary sphincter. In a female anatomy, the retainer portion is preferably positioned within the urethra, between the internal urethral orifice and the external urethral orifice. The retainer portion can then be positioned such that it is in the urethra between the meatus and the external urethral sphincter. Catheter 10 is preferably fully internal to the body once properly installed.

Turning to FIGS. 1 and 1A, catheter 10 can comprise a tube 12 with a wall 12A having an outer surface 12B, a lumen 14 with a lumen wall 14A, a valve 100, a retainer portion 20, a proximal end 16 with a proximal tip 16A and an engagement chamber 16B, and a distal end 18 with openings 18A and a distal tip 18B. The catheter tube 12, which is shown in cross section in FIG. 1A, preferably has a circular cross-sectional shape, but can be of any shape suitable for the intended use of catheter 10. When used in the lower urinary tract of a human male, as shown in FIG. 2, tube 12 preferably has an outer diameter (as measured across outer surface 12B) ranging from about 1 French (0.3 mm) to 20 French (6.6 mm), which is approximately the same as or less than the maximum expanded dimension of the urethra 2600. Wall 12 can have a hardness of any amount from: about 30 Shore A to 55 Shore D, or about 30 Shore A, or about 30 to 50 Shore A, or about 20 to 50 Shore A, although any suitable hardness for the intended use of catheter 10 would suffice.

Lumen 14 may have any suitable cross-sectional geometrical shape (e.g., circular (which is most preferred), oval, semi-circular, rectangular, triangular, trapezoidal, or crescent) and can have a cross-sectional surface area (which is the area inside of lumen wall 14A when viewed in cross section) equivalent to the area of a 0.1 mm diameter circle to that of a 5.5 mm diameter circle. If the cross-sectional shape of lumen 14 is circular lumen 14 preferably has a diameter of any amount from: 0.1 mm to 5.5 mm. Lumen 14 may also comprise different cross-sectional areas along its length. For example, the cross-sectional area of the lumen may be greater where the valve 100 is positioned, and/or a greater cross-sectional area at the proximal end 16. Or, the lumen's cross-sectional area may be greater along its entire length distal to valve 100.

Tip 16A can have an outer diameter greater than the diameter of the outer wall 12B. For example, tip 16A may have a diameter of 0.5 mm-1 mm greater than outer wall 12B. The purpose of tip 16A having a slightly larger diameter is so a user can locate it by touch (e.g., by pressing against the skin and feeling the ridge at tip 16A) when tip 16A is positioned in the penile urethra.

An engagement chamber 16B can be at or near the proximal end 16 of the catheter 10. The engagement chamber 16B can be located between the proximal tip 16A and the valve 100, or extend from proximal tip 16A to valve 100 or a position proximal valve 100. The engagement chamber 16B includes a space configured to engage the apparatus 1172 as generally shown in FIGS. 9-11 and described below. The engagement chamber 16B can have an annular, cylindrical shape, with a circular cross-section although any suitable shape may be used. As shown, the engagement chamber 16B has a circular cross-sectional shape with a diameter preferably form 0.1 mm to 5.5 mm. The engagement chamber 16B may have a hardness greater than the hardness of tube 12. For example, the hardness may be of any hardness between 10 Shore A to 55 Shore D harder than tube 12, or 10 Shore A-20 Shore A harder, or 20 Shore A-50 Shore A harder, or 50 Shore A-55 Shore D harder. A purpose for engagement chamber 16B being harder than tube 12 is to better secure apparatus 1172 in engagement chamber 16B. It is not, however, required that catheter 10 have a mating chamber 16B. For example, apparatus 1172 could engage lumen wall 14A or another structure.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, distal end 18 and tip 18B are configured to enter the patient's body through the urethral orifice 2700, and into the urethra 2600 when catheter 10 is positioned inside the lower urinary tract. As shown in this embodiment, distal tip 18B is tapered, rounded and closed. The distal tip 18B can comprise a material with hardness greater than the hardness of wall 12A. Distal end 18 permits the inflow of bodily fluid, such as urine, from a bladder or other body part into lumen 14, which can be accomplished in any suitable manner. One or more (as shown, two) openings 18A permit bodily fluid, such as urine, to enter lumen 14. As shown, openings 18A are on opposite sides of tube 12, so if one opening 18A is blocked because it is positioned against body tissue, the other opening 18A should still be unblocked. However, there need only be one opening, or there could be more than two openings, and the openings could be of any suitable size, configuration or location so they allow fluid, such as urine from the bladder, to enter lumen 14.

When catheter 10 is positioned in the lower urinary tract of a human male, the one or more openings 18A are positioned in the bladder 2500, as shown in FIG. 2.

Retainer Portion

The retainer portion 20 is positioned in the bulbar urethra 2300 when catheter 10 is properly positioned in the lower urinary tract of a human male. Retainer portion 20 is configured to prevent the inadvertent migration of catheter 10 either forward or backward once catheter 10 is properly positioned in the body. If positioned in the bulbar urethra, the retainer portion 20 is blocked by the external sphincter to prevent inadvertent retrograde migration, and blocked by the penile portion of the urethra 2600 to prevent inadvertent ante grade migration. When sufficient pulling or pushing force is applied to catheter 10, retainer portion 20 compresses so that it can pass through the urethra 2600 when catheter 10 is being removed from, or being placed in, the lower urinary tract.

Retainer portion 20 is preferably formed: (a) over or as part of wall 12A of tube 12, or (b) as a separate part that has a passage, such as passage 28 shown in FIG. 3B or passage 8430 shown in FIG. 3C, wherein part of tube 12 is positioned snuggly in the passage. Each passage 28 and 8430 has a dimension configured to receive part of tube 12 and enable retainer portion 20 to fit snuggly on tube 12. Retainer portion 20 can comprise ribs, dimples, staples, or other structures on its outer surface to help retain it in the bulbar urethra or other body area.

As best seen in FIGS. 1 and 3A, the retainer portion 20 can comprise a top surface 22, proximal tapered surface 24, and a distal tapered surface 26. The proximal tapered surface 24 can be tapered from the top surface 22 to about the outer surface 12B of tube 12. The distal tapered surface 26 can be tapered from the top surface 22 to about the outer surface 12A of tube 12. The retainer portion has a length as measured along the longitudinal axis X of catheter 10. In one embodiment the retainer portion 20 has a total length of any amount from about: 1 cm to 10 cm, or 2 cm to 8 cm, or 3 cm to 7 cm, or 4 cm to 6 cm, and top surface 22 has a length of any amount from about: 1 cm to 10 cm, or about 10%, about 20%, about 30%, or about 40%, or about 50%, or about 60%, or about 70%, or about 80%, or about 90%, or about 95%, or any amount from about 5% to 95%, of the total length of retainer portion 20.

In an embodiment suitable for use in the lower urinary tract of a human male, the maximum cross-sectional area as measured inside of surface 22 (and including the cross-sectional area of passage 28) or surface 8410 (and including the cross-sectional area of passage 8430) is: (a) greater than the cross-sectional area of the external sphincter, (b) greater than the cross-sectional area of the penile urethra 2600, and (c) smaller than the cross-sectional dimension of the bulbar urethra 2300. The maximum cross-sectional area (as measured when retainer portion 20 is not being compressed) may be 1.2 times larger, 1.5 to two times larger, three times as large, four times as large, five times as large, six times as large, seven times as large, eight times as large, nine times as large, ten times as large, or any amount from: 1.2 to five times as large, or 1.5 to ten times as large, as the cross-sectional area measured inside the outer surface 12B of tube 12. The maximum cross-sectional area (as measured when retainer portion 20 is not being compressed) may be any amount from: (24 mm)²π to (25 mm)²π, (4 mm)²π to (25 mm)²π, or (6 mm)²π to (20 mm)²π, or (8 mm)²π to (16 mm)²π, or (10 mm)²π to (15 mm)²π, or (12 mm)²π to (15 mm)²π, or (5 mm)²π to (10 mm)²π. In one embodiment the top surface 22 has a circular cross-sectional shape and has a diameter of any amount from: 5 mm to 10 mm, or 5 mm to 7 mm, or 4 mm to 8 mm, or 6 mm to 15 mm, or 8 mm to 15 mm, or 6 mm to 20 mm, or 8 mm to 22 mm. The diameter of surface 12B (which is the outer diameter of tube 12) can be about 2.0 mm to 6.0 mm, or 4.6 to 6.0 mm, or any amount from: 1.5 mm to 6.5 mm.

FIG. 3C shows alternate retainer portion 20′ comprising one or more mounds 8410 and one or more grooves 8420 formed in its outer surface 8410. The retainer portion 20′ can comprise alternating grooves 8420 and mounds 8410. For example, the retainer portion 20′ can comprise four grooves 8420 and four mounds 8410 as shown in FIG. 3C. The cross-sectional shape of the retainer portion could also symmetrical or asymmetrical, and be circular, cross-like, or any suitable shape for use with catheter 10.

The catheter 10 may comprise two or more retainer portions 20A as shown in FIG. 3D for catheter 10′, or have any suitable number of retainer portions along wall 12, wherein the plurality of retainer portions could be of different shapes and/or sizes. For example, the catheter 10 can comprise a first retainer portion 20A and a second retainer portion 20A, wherein (if catheter 10 is being used in the lower urinary tract of a human male) both are positioned in the bulbar urethra when catheter 10 is positioned in a body. Retainer portions 20A would have respective lengths suitable for fitting into a body area such as the bulbar urethra, for their intended use.

FIG. 3E shows a catheter 10B that has a plurality of retainer portions 21, 21A, 21B, and 21C of different shapes and sizes. The retainer portions would have suitable shapes and sizes for fitting into one or more body areas, such as the bulbar urethra.

Regardless of the structure or number of the retainer portion(s) utilized, any retainer portion can be comprised of solid material or include gas pockets. Each retainer portion should be atraumatic, and it preferably has a relatively soft, atraumatic surface. Retainer portion can be comprised of a flexible silicone and/or have a soft silicone surface coating. The retainer portion preferably has a durometer of any amount from: 1 to 40, or 5 to 30, or 10 to 25, or 15-25 Shore A. The retainer portion is preferably compressible. For example, the retainer portion can comprise a material that compresses to pass through cross-sectional areas smaller than the maximum cross-sectional area of the retainer portion. When used in the lower urinary tract of a human male, the retainer portion should compress to at least a dimension so that it can be pushed or pulled through the maximum expanded dimension of urethra 2600, which could be about 6 mm to 12 mm, or about 10 mm. The retainer portion expands once it is no longer restricted. When used in the lower urinary tract of a human male, the retainer portion is compressed when it is pulled through the urethra 2600 and expands once it enters the bulbar urethra 2300.

In some embodiments, the retainer portion may be compressed to about 80%, 75%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 10%, or any amount from about 10%-80% of the maximum cross-sectional area. The retainer portion 20 is compressed to any such amount when a total force is applied substantially equally to the outer surface of the retainer portion at the maximum cross-sectional area in an amount of 2 lbs., 3 lbs., 4 lbs., 5 lbs., 6 lbs., 7 lbs., 8 lbs., 9 lbs., 10 lbs., 11 lbs., 12 lbs., 13 lbs., 14 lbs., 15 lbs., 16 lbs., 17 lbs., 18 lbs., 19 lbs., 20 lbs., or any force within the range of: 1-10 lbs., 2-20 lbs., or 0.5-5.0 lbs.

Valve

The valve 100 is preferably configured to restrict, or allow, fluid flow from the bladder 2000 (or other body part) out of the proximal end 16 of catheter 10. In the embodiment shown, the valve 100 is located in lumen 14 between the proximal end 16 and the retainer portion 20, although the valve 100 can be positioned at any suitable location in the lumen 14, or at the distal end 18 or proximal end 16 of catheter 10, as long as the valve can open to allow, and close to prevent fluid flow out of proximal end 16. As shown in this embodiment, the valve 100 is a magnetic valve, and wireless controller 6000 (described below) can be placed on or near valve 100 from outside of the patient's body to operate valve 100.

The valve 100 preferably comprises a cylindrical body. As shown in FIG. 4, the valve 100 includes a housing 5050, a screw portion 5100, a valve magnet 5150, a valve tip 5200, a spindle 5250, and an alignment tube 5300. The housing 5050 can comprise a cylindrical body. The screw portion 5100 can comprise a threaded body. The valve tip 5200 can be connected to the spindle 5250. The valve tip 5200 can be configured to open and close the valve. For example, the valve tip 5200 can comprise a conical surface corresponding to a seating structure of the valve opening 5400.

The screw portion 5100 can be movable inside the housing 5050. The housing 5050 and the screw portion 5100 can be in a threaded connection. The magnet can be connected to the screw portion 5100 and the spindle 5250. By moving the magnet 5150, the valve 100 can open and close. For example, the magnet 5150 can be moved by using an wireless controller 600 (described below) to open and close the valve 100, such as by spinning magnet 5150, in order to activate the valve 100 and facilitate and/or control fluid flow. The valve 100 and the wireless controller 6000 can be configured to allow the user to increase or decrease the flow rate of the urine from the bladder 2500 by the wireless controller 600 signaling the valve 100.

If valve 100 is a magnetic valve, as shown in this embodiment, when it is operated it pumps fluid, rather than simply allowing fluid to flow as a result of fluid pressure in the bladder 2500 or other body structure in which distal end 18 is positioned. Using the bladder 2500 as an example, by pumping fluid the bladder is more completely emptied, which can lead to relieving the bladder fewer times over a given period of time. Alternatively, the valve could be any structure that can be operated to (a) prevent the passage of fluid out of proximal end 16, and (b) allow fluid to flow past proximal end 16.

Catheter Mating Device

A system according to the invention can comprise a catheter 10 and a catheter mating device 1000, wherein the catheter mating device 1000 and catheter 10 are each configured to connect to one another so that catheter 10 can be moved by moving the catheter mating device 1000. The catheter mating device 1000 can be used to place the catheter 10 into a patient's body, and to remove the catheter 10 from the patient's body. The catheter mating device 1000 comprises a stem 1150 that includes: (a) a tube 1152 having an outer surface (or external wall) 1154 and a lumen 1162, (b) an inner cylinder 1160 having a distal end 1160A and a proximal end 1160B connected to a control 1520, and (c) a distal end 1170 with apparatus 1172.

The apparatus 1172 is a structure that operates mechanically to connect the stem to the proximal end of the catheter, thus connecting the catheter mating device 100 to catheter 10. Apparatus 1172 has a first, retracted position, wherein it can fit inside of the proximal end 16 of tube 12, and a second, expanded position, wherein it engages proximal end 16 and connects catheter mating device 100 to catheter 10.

In this embodiment, the apparatus 1172 comprises tips 1174 that are configured to be positioned inside proximal end 16 (such as inside of engagement chamber 16B) when tips 1174 are in their first, retracted position and have a first distance between them (which may be zero distance because tips 1174 may touch when in the first, retracted position) as best seen in FIGS. 9-11. Tips 1174 can be moved to their second, expanded position in which they have a second distance between them that is larger than the first distance. In the second, expanded position, tips 1174 engage the inner wall of engagement chamber 16B, which connects catheter 10 to catheter mating device 1000. Once engaged, the catheter 10 can be moved through the urethra 2600, as shown best in FIG. 15, by using the catheter mating device 1000 either to push and advance, or pull and retract, the catheter 10.

When in their second, expanded position, the tips 1174 (as measured when they are not restricted by a structure, such as the inner wall of mating chamber 16B or another structure), can have a maximum outer distance across them that is the same, or greater than, the diameter of mating chamber 16B (or other inner portion of catheter 10, such as lumen 14, because mating chamber 16B need not be used) in order for tips 1174 to create an interference fit against the inner wall of mating chamber 16B (or other structure). The tips 1174 can be comprised of any suitable material, such as a plastic, metal, or a thermoplastic elastomer.

In some embodiments, the tips 1174 at distal end 1170 form a tapered configuration such that they facilitate proper alignment of the tips 1774 and engagement chamber 16B so that tips 1774 can be received inside of chamber 16B (or other structure of catheter 10, such as lumen 14). Tips 1174 may have rounded end portions 1175 that assist in engaging proximal end 16.

The catheter mating device 1000 in this embodiment comprises a cylinder 1160 positioned inside of outer tube 1152. The cylinder 1160 is operated to move from a retracted position to an extended position. When cylinder 1160 is in its extended position (as shown in FIGS. 8, 8B, and 8D), the cylinder 1160 moves between the tips 1174 and pushes them open to their second, extended position. When cylinder 1160 is in its retracted position (as shown in FIGS. 8, 8A, 8C, and 9-11) tips 1174 are in their first, retracted position. The cylinder 1160 may be comprised of any suitable material, such as ABS or PTFE, and preferably has a tapered distal end 1164.

A user may operate the catheter mating device 1000 by moving the control 1520 to its second position, which move the apparatus 1172 to its second, expanded position, and by moving the control 1520 to its first position, in which the apparatus 1172 either moves to, or is moved to its first, retracted position. In the embodiment shown, control 1520 is a slide switch directly or indirectly connected to cylinder 1160. When control 1520 is in its first position, the cylinder 1160 is in its first, retracted position. When control 1520 is moved to its second position, cylinder 1160 is moved to its second, extended position, wherein it moves between tips 1174 and pushes them open to their second, expanded position.

Although tips 1174 are shown as the apparatus 1172, other structures that can be mechanically expanded (as opposed to expanding utilizing gas or liquids) may be used. For example, there may more than two tips that are expanded in the manner described herein. Or, the tips or other structures may be expanded in any suitable manner. Alternatively, the tube 1152 of the stem 1150 could function as an outer sheath, and the apparatus could be attached to the cylinder 1160. In that example, the apparatus could be a metal mesh tube. Such an apparatus would be in its first, retracted position when contained inside of the tube 1152. The tube would be connected to the control 1520 and pulled back to expose the apparatus when the control 1520 is moved proximally (i.e., away from the catheter 10). That would permit the metal-mesh tube to automatically expand to its second, expanded position to engage proximal end 16. Or, utilizing the same structure, the cylinder 1160 including the apparatus could be connected to the control. In that case, a user could advance the cylinder 1160 and metal mesh tube out of the tube 1152, and the metal mesh tube would automatically expand to its second, expanded position. Alternatively, the stem could comprise an apparatus that is a flexible tube (comprised of rubber or flexible plastic) with one end of the tube connected to a first sleeve and another end connected to a second sleeve. The first sleeve and second sleeve would be coaxial and at least one could move relative the other. A user could then manipulate one or both of the sleeves to compress the tube causing it to bulge, i.e., expand in the center, and engage the inner wall of the proximal end 16 (which could be engagement chamber 16B) of catheter 10.

The stem 1150 in this embodiment has a length configured to enable a user to place catheter 10 in the urinary tract using the catheter mating device 1000. For example, in this embodiment stem 1150 may have a lengths (a) greater than the length of the penile urethra of a patient, (b) less than or equal to the length as measured from the membranous portion to the urethral orifice of a patient, and/or (c) less than the length of the penile urethra of a patient. In some embodiments, the stem 1150 is about 10 cm to 26 cm in length. Stem 1150 can include a fluid opening 1162 that is configured to allow fluid flow from the catheter 10 to pass through the lumen 1164 of stem 1150 and out of the proximal end 1152A of tube 1152, where the fluid can be collected or disposed, or pass through housing 1500 to be collected or disposed.

Housing

The catheter retainer portion 1000 can have a handle (or housing) 1500 at its proximal end. Housing 1500 may house a portion of the stem 1150 and/or cylinder 1160, and includes a control 1520. The housing 1500 is comprised of any suitable material such as PVC or other plastic. Housing 1500 has body portion 1500A, which can be formed of two connected portions 1550 and 1580 as shown in FIG. 7. Body portion 1500A has a distal end 1502, a proximal end 1504, and a cavity 1506. An opening 1510, which communicates with cavity 1506, is in surface 1588. A control 1520 is positioned in cavity 1506 and extends through opening 1510 where it can be accessed by a user.

As shown, control 1520 is a slide switch that can be moved from a first (proximal) position to a second (distal position). Control 1520 has a ridge 1522 that can be pushed by a user's finger, a body portion 1524 that extends through opening 1510, and a base 1526 positioned in cavity 1506. Fasteners 1528 extend through apertures 1530 to retain control in housing 1500.

In the embodiment shown, cylinder 1160 is connected to control 1520. A user can move switch 1520 in a distal direction to push cylinder 1160 to its extended position, wherein the cylinder 1160 moves the apparatus to its second, expanded position. A user can move switch 1520 in a proximal direction, wherein the cylinder 1160 moves to its retracted position away from the apparatus 1172 and the apparatus moves to its first, retracted position. Although a manual slide switch is described herein, control 1520 could be any structure that can operate to directly or indirectly move the apparatus to its second, expanded position.

The proximal end 1152A of tube 1152 is retained inside of cavity 1506. If fluid enters lumen (or passageway) 1164 it exits the proximal end 1152A, and can flow through housing 1500, where it exits opening 1504A at proximal end 1504. This allows for relatively easy collection or disposal of fluid from the body in which catheter 10 is positioned. In one embodiment, the stem 1150 has a length of about 10 cm to 26 cm.

Materials

The catheter 10 and the stem 1170 of catheter mating device 1000 are, respectively, constructed in a shape and of a material that is conducive for their intended use. For example, the catheter 10 and stem 1170 may be constructed of any material or materials suitable for catheters used in the body (such as PVC, latex, silicone, polyurethane or any suitable blend of these materials).

Packaging and Use

The catheter mating device 1000 and the catheter 10 can be carried in a sterilized pouch. A user may open the pouch comprising a catheter 10 and the catheter mating device 1000 and insert the catheter 10 into the lower urinary tract, and could use catheter mating device 1000 before inserting the catheter 10 into orifice 2700 of urethra 2600.

Wireless Controller

Urine in the bladder (or fluid from another area in the body) can be voided when the user utilizes an external wireless controller 6000 (shown in FIGS. 2 and 5) to operate the valve 100 and allow urine to travel through the lumen 14, past proximal end 16, and out of catheter 10. As shown in FIG. 5, the wireless controller 6000 can comprise an wireless controller magnet 6050, a power source 6100, an electronic circuitry 6150, and one or more inputs 6200, 6250. In some embodiments, the one or more inputs 6200, 6250 can comprise a first input to open the valve 100 and a second input to close the valve 100. The wireless controller comprises two or more input modes, such as a close mode, an open mode, and an off mode. The valve 100 is closed (or off) when the wireless controller 6000 is in its close mode, and is open (or in operation) when the wireless controller is in its open mode. The valve 100 can remain closed or remain opened when the wireless controller 6000 is in its off mode. In some embodiments, the circuitry 6150 can comprise software configured to automate the process of controlling fluid flow from bladder. A user can place the wireless controller 6000 near the valve 100, e.g., on the skin of the patient between the scrotum and the shaft of the penis. The user may press the input 6200 to operate the magnet 6050.

Sensors and Data Collection

As shown in FIG. 12, the catheter 10D can include one or more sensors 2000 configured to transmit data from the patient's body. In all other respects, catheter 10′ is the same as catheter 10, described above. As used herein, any sensor used with a catheter according to the invention is referenced by numeral 2000. Thus, one or more sensors 2000 refers to a single sensor and a plurality of sensors. The data can comprise one or more of: fluid pressure of urine in the bladder and/or urethra, volume of fluid in the bladder, temperature of fluid in the bladder and/or urethra, acidity of fluid in the bladder and/or urethra, bacteria type and quantity of fluid in the bladder and/or urethra, chemical composition of fluid of fluid in the bladder and/or urethra, fluid flow during emptying of the bladder when valve 100 is open, or actuated. One or more sensors 2000 as described in this disclosure are of a type known to those skilled in the relevant art, although the claims are not limited to presently-known sensors. One or more sensors 2000 on or inside of catheter 10D would have basically consistent sensor location and extended sensors measurements within the body to better monitor patient conditions, without having sensors taken out of the body.

The one or more sensors 2000 can be placed at any suitable location on catheter 10D. For example, one or more sensors 2000 can be placed on or near the distal tip 18 of catheter 10D, in which case one or more sensors 2000 would be positioned in the bladder if catheter 10D is configured for use in the lower urinary tract of a human male. A catheter 10D could comprise different inner diameters can include a diameter in which a sensor 2000 would fit, such that the sensor is retained within lumen 14 without preventing fluid flow through the lumen. For example, a sensor 2000 could be distal to openings 18A. The outer wall 12A of the tube 12 would then prevent sensor 2000 from contacting body tissue or fluid. One or more sensors 2000 may be positioned on or in retainer portion 20.

In one embodiment, one or more sensors 2000 can determine the pressure of urine within the bladder and send a signal to a processor that sends the information to a computing device, or the one or more sensors 2000 could send data directly to the computing device. The computing device, which can be any device, such as a PC or other computer, cell phone, dedicated catheter device, the wireless controller, or the catheter mating device, can have software that determines whether and when fluid (such as urine) needs to be drained from the bladder. The computing device can notify the user in any manner to drain urine from his/her bladder. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors 2000 can be used to determine when urine has been sufficiently drained from the bladder, such as by determining that the pressure level within the bladder has dropped below a certain level. This information can be used to close the valve 100 and halt the flow of urine from leaving the bladder. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors 2000 can include acoustics to determine the volume of urine in the bladder. Different types of sensors can be placed in or on the catheter 10 to determine metrics related to the health of areas of the body, such as bladder health.

In some embodiments, a sensor 2000 can be configured to detect the flow rate of urine through the valve 100. For example, a catheter system 10D can comprise software configured to detect the flow rate of urine through the valve 100 by measuring the electric current draw of the valve motor by wireless controller 6000. The catheter system 10D can comprise an external computing device comprising a memory in wireless communication (either intermittently or continuously) with the electronic circuitry 6150 of wireless controller 6000 to record store and/or transmit data measured by one or more sensors 2000.

In some embodiments, one or more sensors 2000 can function without a power source. By constructing the sensor in a specific manner the external unit can observe changes in the resonant frequency characteristics.

The data collected by one or more sensors 2000 can be stored, analyzed, and/or transmitted via software resident on a device outside of the body in which one or more sensors 2000 is positioned. The software may utilize machine-learning algorithms to predict and interpret the measurements.

The sensor can be configured to change its mechanical properties (e.g. size or shape) based on pressure changes inside the bladder. The user can use an external device to detect changes in mechanical properties of the sensor by, for example, sending and/or receiving magnetic or electronic signals.

In another embodiment shown in FIG. 13, catheter 10E has lumen 14 as described herein, and a second lumen 14′. In all other respects, catheter 10E is the same as previously described catheter 10D. Second lumen 14′ can house one or more antennas 2002 that communicate in any suitable manner with the one or more sensors 2000 and with one or more external devices, such as a transducer or external computer device. Antennas 2002 can send data from one or more sensors 2000 to one or more external devices and signals from one or more external devices to any of the one or more sensors 2000. Antennas 2100 can have a power source 2004. One, some, or all of the one or more sensors 2000 may be partially or totally in second lumen 14′.

Signal Transmission

One or more sensors 2000 can utilize basic wireless transmission protocol to send data to a computing device. This can be accomplished utilizing to Bluetooth, 802.11 WiFi, SONAR, UltraSound, MedRadio, or other wireless communications protocols. For example, the sensors can be configured to interface with CT, ultrasound, x-ray, and/or electronic data storage devices.

One or more sensors 2000 can comprise parts configured to interface and/or communicate with different products. For example, one or more sensors 2000 can be configured to interface with Amazon Echo® or Google Home®. One or more sensors 2000 could also be configured to interface with patient databases in hospitals or elsewhere. Information provided by a sensor 2000 may be formatted as desired. For example, analog data related to movement may be converted (using an analog to digital converter, for example) to a digital format, and subsequently formatted into a data packet including a data header followed by one or more data values.

Any amount of data can be transmitted in any manner. For example, data from one or more sensors 2000 can be transmitted to another device as the data is measured, or data can be stored (such as in a memory storage device) for a period of time before being transmitted to another device. In some cases, for example, it may be more efficient to transmit blocks of data at once rather than initiating communication with another device each time data is available. In other cases, a device may be out of range or otherwise unavailable to receive the data from one or more sensors 2000. The data can also be stored for any desired length of time, and/or until a particular event occurs. For example, the data could be stored by one or more sensors 2000 until the catheter mating device 1000 is connected to catheter 10′ or 10″, or until wireless controller 6000 is operated. Data could also be transmitted by one or more sensors 2000 to any device, such as the wireless controller 6000, catheter mating device 1000, or a cell phone. The data could be transmitted to such a device when the device is within a given range of one or more sensors 2000 (and hence a given range of the antenna(s) 2002, if utilized).

Data can also be deleted when a data record in a sensor 2000 exceeds a predetermined storage time, and/or the oldest data record is deleted first after a predetermined storage size limit has been reached.

External Computer Device

The catheter system 1000 can comprise a computing device external to the patient's body. The external computing device may comprise a memory wirelessly connected to the electronic circuitry 6150 to receive operational parameters of the lower urinary tract. In some embodiments, the computing device can have a software which can be used to interpret data gathered the one or more sensors 2000. For example, one or more sensors 2000 may be a pressure sensor and the computing device can analyze data pressure received from the sensor 2000 be used to alert a user about when the user's bladder is likely to contract and void.

NON-LIMITING EXAMPLES OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Example 1

A catheter system comprising:

-   -   (a) a catheter comprising (i) a tube, the tube having (A) a wall         with an outer surface, the outer surface having a first         cross-sectional area, (B) a lumen, (C) a distal end with one or         more openings in communication with the lumen, and (D) a         proximal end with an opening in communication with the         lumen, (ii) a valve that is operated to be in (A) a closed         configuration, wherein fluid does not flow out of the proximal         end, or (B) an open configuration in which fluid does flow out         of the proximal end; and (iii) a retainer portion between the         distal end and the proximal end, the retainer portion having a         maximum cross-sectional area at least twice as great as the         first cross-sectional area; and     -   (b) a catheter mating device comprising: a stem having a         proximal end and a distal end; wherein the distal end includes         an apparatus having (i) a first configuration with a first         distal cross-sectional area, and (ii) a second configuration         with a second distal cross-sectional area that is greater than         the first distal cross-sectional area; the apparatus being         configured to be received in the proximal end of the catheter         when in its first configuration, and configured to engage the         proximal end of the catheter when in its second configuration.

Example 2

The catheter system of example 1, wherein the retainer portion has a maximum cross-sectional area that is 3-5 times greater than the first cross-sectional area.

Example 3

The catheter of example 1, wherein the retainer portion has a maximum cross-sectional area that is 1.5-3 times larger than the first cross-sectional area.

Example 4

The catheter system of any of examples 1-3, wherein the retainer portion has a length and the maximum cross-sectional area is at a center of the length.

Example 5

The catheter system of any of examples 1-4, wherein the retainer portion has a length and the maximum cross-sectional area is along part of the length.

Example 6

The catheter system of any of examples 1-3, wherein the retainer portion has a top surface and the maximum cross-sectional length along the entire top surface.

Example 7

The catheter system of any of examples 1-6, wherein the length of the retainer portion is between 1 cm and 10 cm.

Example 8

The catheter system of any of examples 1-7, wherein the maximum cross-sectional area is between (4 mm)²π and (25 mm)²π.

Example 9

The catheter system of any of examples 1-7, wherein the retainer portion has a circular cross-section at its maximum cross-sectional area, and a diameter of between 5 mm and 10 mm at the maximum cross-sectional area.

Example 10

The catheter system of any of examples 1-9, wherein the retainer portion has a hardness of between 1 and 40 Shore A.

Example 11

The catheter system of any of examples 1-10, wherein the wall of the catheter has a hardness of between 30 Shore A and 55 Shore D.

Example 12

The catheter system of any of examples 1-11, wherein the retainer portion is comprised of silicone.

Example 13

The catheter system of any of examples 1-12, wherein the retainer portion is positioned between the valve and the distal end.

Example 14

The catheter system of any of examples 1-12, wherein the retainer portion comprises one or more of grooves and mounds.

Example 15

The catheter system of any of examples 1-14 that is configured to be completely retained inside of a urinary tract of a male human.

Example 16

The catheter system of any of examples 1-15, wherein the retainer portion extends outward from the outer surface of the wall.

Example 17

The catheter system of any of examples 1-16, wherein the retainer portion is configured to be compressed to have a maximum cross-sectional area of 0.3 mm to 8.0 mm when moved through a penile urethra.

Example 18

The catheter system of any of examples 1-17, wherein at least part of the retainer portion is configured to be positioned within the bulbar urethra of the patient when the catheter is positioned inside a urinary tract of a human male.

Example 19

The catheter system of any of examples 1-18, wherein the retainer portion is positioned on the tube.

Example 20

The catheter system of example 19, wherein the retainer portion includes a passage therethrough and part of the tube is positioned in the passage.

Example 21

The catheter system of example 1, wherein the retainer portion has (a) a distal section that has (a) a smaller cross-sectional area than the maximum cross-sectional area, and (b) a proximal section that has a smaller cross-sectional area than the maximum cross-sectional area.

Example 22

The catheter system of any of examples 1-21, wherein the valve is a magnetic valve.

Example 23

The catheter system of any of examples 1-22, wherein the valve is positioned in the lumen.

Example 24

The catheter system of any of examples 1-23 that further includes an engagement chamber at the proximal end, wherein the engagement chamber is about 10 Shore A to 55 Shore D harder than the wall.

Example 25

The catheter system of any of examples 1-23 that further includes an engagement chamber that has a diameter that is the same as a diameter of the lumen.

Example 26

The catheter system of any of examples 1-25 that further includes one or more sensors on or in the catheter.

Example 27

The catheter system of example 26 comprising a sensor housing, wherein the one or more sensors are positioned inside of the sensor housing.

Example 28

The catheter system of example 26 wherein the one or more sensors are positioned inside of the lumen.

Example 29

The catheter system of example 26, wherein the one or more sensors are positioned in a bladder when the catheter is positioned in a lower urinary tract of a human male.

Example 30

The catheter system of example 26, wherein the catheter comprises a distal tip and at least a portion of the one or more sensors is positioned inside of the distal tip.

Example 31

The catheter system of example 26, wherein the one or more sensors are positioned at least partially in the lumen.

Example 32

The catheter system of any of examples 26-31 that has one sensor.

Example 33

The catheter system of any of examples 26-31 that has a plurality of sensors.

Example 34

The catheter system of any of examples 26-33, wherein the one or more sensors are configured to collect data of the patient, the data comprising one or more of: fluid pressure inside of the bladder, fluid volume inside of the bladder, temperature inside of the bladder, acidity of urine, bacteria level and type in urine, chemical composition of urine, motion of the patient, location of the patient, and fluid flow when emptying the bladder.

Example 35

The catheter system of any of examples 1-34, wherein the catheter mating device further includes a housing connected to the proximal end of the stem.

Example 36

The catheter system of example 35, wherein the proximal end of the stem is positioned inside of the housing.

Example 37

The catheter of any of examples 1-36, wherein the stem has an internal passageway configured to the transport bodily fluid.

Example 38

The catheter system of example 37, wherein the internal passageway is inside of an external wall.

Example 39

The catheter system of example 38, wherein the external wall is transparent or translucent.

Example 40

The catheter system of example 37, wherein the internal passageway is coaxial with the external wall.

Example 41

The catheter system of example 35, wherein the housing includes a control having a first position and a second position, and the distal end of the stem is in its first position when the control is in its first position, and the distal end of the stem is in its second position when the control is in its second position.

Example 42

The catheter system of example 41, wherein the control is a slide button on an outside surface of the housing, the slide button moveable between the first position of the control and the second position of the control.

Example 43

The catheter system of example 42, wherein the slide button is connected to the cylinder.

Example 44

The catheter system of any of examples 35, 36 or 41-43, wherein the housing includes a cavity, a housing proximal end and a housing distal end, and the housing proximal end is open to the cavity, and the housing proximal end has an opening through which fluid can pass.

Example 45

The catheter system of any of examples 35, 36 or 41-44, wherein the housing is comprised of plastic.

Example 46

The catheter system of any of examples 35, 36 or 41-45, wherein the housing includes an opening in one side, wherein the opening communicates with the cavity and the control is positioned in the opening.

Example 47

The catheter system of any of examples 1-46, wherein the tube has a durometer of between 35 Shore A and 90 Shore D.

Example 48

The catheter system of any of examples 1-47, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of tips moveable from the first position to the second position.

Example 49

The catheter system of example 48, wherein the apparatus comprises two tips.

Example 50

The catheter system of example 49, wherein the tips move apart and into the second position when the control is moved to its second position.

Example 51

The catheter system of example 48 that further includes a cylinder attached to the control, and the cylinder is movable between a between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the cylinder in its extended position contacts the tips and moves apart and into the second position, when the control is in its second position.

Example 52

The catheter system of example 51, wherein the cylinder in its retracted position does not contact the tips and the tips are in their first position, when the control is in its first position.

Example 53

The catheter system of any of examples 51-52, wherein the cylinder has a durometer of between 60 Shore A and 90 Shore D.

Example 54

The catheter system of any of examples 1-53, wherein the distal end of the stem has a tip of a durometer of 5-65 Shore A greater than the durometer of an outer tube of the stem.

Example 55

The catheter system of any of examples 1-54 that further includes an wireless controller that activates the valve.

Example 56

The catheter system of any of examples 26-34, further comprising an external computing device configured to process and store patient data, wherein the sensors are configured to wirelessly transmit data to the external computing device.

Example 57

The catheter system of example 56, wherein the external computing device is wirelessly connected to the valve and the valve is configured to actuate based on a command by the external computing device.

Example 58

The catheter system of any of examples 26-34 that further includes one or more antennas, wherein the antennas are configured to transmit data received from the one or more sensors.

Example 59

The catheter system of any of examples 26-34, wherein the catheter includes a second lumen and the one or more antennas are positioned in the second lumen.

Example 60

The catheter system of example 56 that further includes one or more antennas, wherein the antennas are configured to transmit data received from the one or more sensors to an external computing device.

Example 61

The catheter system of example 58, wherein the one or more antennas have a power source positioned in the catheter.

Example 62

The catheter system of any of examples 1-62, wherein the power source is a battery.

Example 63

The catheter system of example 1 that includes a plurality of retainer portions.

Example 64

The catheter system of example 63, wherein at least one of the plurality of retainer portions has a different size than the other of the plurality of retainer portions.

Example 65

The catheter system of example 63, wherein at least one of the plurality of retainer portions has a different shape than the other of the plurality of retainer portions

Example 66

A catheter comprising:

-   -   (a) a tube, the tube having (i) a wall with an outer surface,         the outer surface having a first cross-sectional area, (ii) a         lumen, (iii) a distal end with one or more openings in         communication with the lumen, and (iv) a proximal end with an         opening in communication with the lumen,     -   (b) a valve that is operated to be in (i) a closed         configuration, wherein fluid does not flow out of the proximal         end, or (ii) an open configuration in which fluid does flow out         of the proximal end; and     -   (c) a retainer portion between the distal end and the proximal         end, the retainer portion having a maximum cross-sectional area         at least twice as great as the first cross-sectional area.

Example 67

The catheter of example 66 that has a length of 173 mm to 223 mm.

Example 68

The catheter of example 66 or 67, wherein the retainer portion is 48 mm to 75 mm from a closest of the one or more openings in the distal end of the catheter.

Example 69

The catheter of any of examples 66-68, wherein the proximal end has a proximal tip and the distance from the proximal tip to the closest of the one or more openings is 159 mm to 197 mm.

Example 70

The catheter of any of examples 66-69, wherein the retainer portion has a first end and a second end, and a first tapered portion at the first end and a second tapered portion at the second end.

Example 71

The catheter of example 70, wherein the first tapered portion extends from the outer diameter on the tube to the maximum diameter of the retainer portion, and the second tapered portion extends from the outer diameter on the tube to the maximum diameter of the retainer portion.

Example 72

The catheter of example 71, wherein the first tapered portion has a length of 4 mm to 8 mm, and the second tapered portion has a length of 10 mm to 25 mm.

Example 73

The catheter of any of examples 66-72 that further includes a second lumen that includes one or more of: one or more sensors, and one or more antennas.

Example 74

The catheter of any of examples 66-72 that further includes a second lumen that includes an antenna.

Example 75

The catheter of example 74, wherein the second lumen has a length and the antenna is at least half the length.

Example 76

The catheter of example 74, wherein the second lumen has a length and the antenna is extends at least 70%, or 80%, or 90% of the length.

Example 77

The catheter of example 73, wherein the second lumen has a length equal to a length of the lumen.

Example 78

The catheter of any of examples 73-77, wherein the antenna is in electrical contact with one or more sensors positioned on or in the catheter.

Example 79

The catheter of example 78, wherein the antenna is physically connected to the one or more sensors.

Example 80

The catheter of any of examples 73-79 that has a plurality of sensors.

Example 81

The catheter of example 73, wherein the one or more sensors are positioned at one or more of: the distal end of the catheter, inside the lumen of the catheter, and in or on the retainer portion.

Example 82

The catheter of any of examples 66-81, wherein the retainer portion has an outer surface, and one or more of dimples, depressions, and ribs on the outer surface.

Example 83

The catheter of any of examples 66-82, wherein the proximal end has a proximal tip and a raised ridge at the proximal tip.

Example 84

The catheter of example 83, wherein the raised ridge has a diameter that is 0.5 to 1.0 mm greater that a diameter of the tube.

Example 85

The catheter of any of examples 66-84 that further includes a mating chamber at the proximal end, the mating chamber being harder than the tube.

Example 86

The catheter of example 85, wherein the mating chamber has a durometer of between 45-65 Shore D.

Example 87

The catheter of example 85, wherein the mating chamber has a durometer of between 55-90 Shore D

Example 88

The catheter of example 85, wherein the mating chamber has a durometer of 55 Shore D.

Example 89

The catheter of any of examples 85-88, wherein the tube has a durometer of 50-65 Shore A.

Example 90

The catheter of any of examples 85-88, wherein the tube has a durometer of 60 Shore A.

Example 91

The catheter of any of examples 85-88, wherein the tube has a durometer of 10-30 Shore A.

Example 92

The catheter of any of examples 66-91, wherein the tube comprises silicone.

Example 93

The catheter of any of examples 73 or 78-81, wherein the one or more sensors are configured to collect data of the patient, the data comprising one or more of: fluid pressure inside of the bladder, fluid volume inside of the bladder, temperature inside of the bladder, acidity of urine, bacteria level and type in urine, chemical composition of urine, motion of the patient, location of the patient, and fluid flow when emptying the bladder.

Example 94

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65, wherein the catheter has a length of 173 mm to 223 mm.

Example 95

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65, wherein the retainer portion is 48 mm to 75 mm from a closest of the one or more openings in the distal end of the catheter.

Example 96

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65, wherein the proximal end has a proximal tip and the distance from the proximal tip to the closest of the one or more openings is 159 mm to 197 mm.

Example 97

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65, wherein the retainer portion has a first end and a second end, and a first tapered portion at the first end and a second tapered portion at the second end.

Example 98

The catheter system of example 97, wherein the first tapered portion extends from the outer diameter on the tube to the maximum diameter of the retainer portion, and the second tapered portion extends from the outer diameter on the tube to the maximum diameter of the retainer portion.

Example 99

The catheter system of example 97, wherein the first tapered portion has a length of 4 mm to 8 mm, and the second tapered portion has a length of 10 mm to 25 mm.

Example 100

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65, wherein the catheter further includes a second lumen that includes one or more of: one or more sensors, and one or more antennas.

Example 101

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65, wherein the catheter further includes a second lumen that includes one or more antennas.

Example 102

The catheter system of example 101, wherein the second lumen has a length and at least one antenna is at least half the length.

Example 103

The catheter system of example 101, wherein the second lumen has a length and the antenna is at least 70%, or 80%, or 90% of the length.

Example 104

The catheter system of example 73, wherein the second lumen has a length equal to a length of the lumen.

Example 105

The catheter system of any of examples 101-104, wherein the antenna is in electrical contact with one or more sensors positioned on or in the catheter.

Example 106

The catheter system of example 105, wherein the antenna is physically connected to the one or more sensors.

Example 107

The catheter system of any of examples 94-106 that has a plurality of sensors on or in the catheter.

Example 108

The catheter system of example 107, wherein the one or more sensors are positioned at one or more of: the distal end of the catheter, completely or totally inside a lumen of the catheter, and/or on or in the retainer portion.

Example 109

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65 or 94-108, wherein the retainer portion has an outer surface, and one or more of dimples, depressions, and ribs on the outer surface.

Example 110

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65 or 94-109, wherein the proximal end has a proximal tip and a raised ridge at the proximal tip.

Example 111

The catheter system of example 110, wherein the raised ridge has a diameter that is 0.5 to 1.0 mm greater that a diameter of the tube.

Example 112

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65 or 94-111 that further includes a mating chamber at the proximal end, the mating chamber being harder than the tube.

Example 113

The catheter system of example 112, wherein the mating chamber has a durometer of between 45-65 Shore D.

Example 114

The catheter system of example 112, wherein the mating chamber has a durometer of between 55-90 Shore D.

Example 115

The catheter system of example 112, wherein the mating chamber has a durometer of 55 Shore D.

Example 116

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65 or 94-115, wherein the tube has a durometer of 50-65 Shore A.

Example 117

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65 or 94-115, wherein the tube has a durometer of 60 Shore A.

Example 118

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65 or 94-115, wherein the tube has a durometer of 10-30 Shore A.

Example 119

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65 or 94-115, wherein the tube comprises silicone.

Example 120

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65 or 94-119, wherein the catheter further comprises one or more sensors configured to collect data of the patient, the data comprising one or more of: fluid pressure inside of the bladder, fluid volume inside of the bladder, temperature inside of the bladder, acidity of urine, bacteria level and type in urine, chemical composition of urine, motion of the patient, location of the patient, and fluid flow when emptying the bladder.

Example 121

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65 or 94-120, wherein the lumen has a diameter of any amount from 0.1 mm to 5.5 mm.

Example 122

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65 or 94-121, wherein the retainer portion has a length of any amount from about: 1 cm to 10 cm, or 2 cm to 8 cm, or 3 cm to 7 cm, or 4 cm to 6 cm.

Example 123

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65 or 94-122, wherein the retainer portion has a top surface that has a length of any amount from: 1 cm to 10 cm.

Example 124

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65 or 94-123, wherein the retainer portion has a top surface and the retainer portion has a length, and the length of the retainer portion is about 10%, or about 20%, or about 30%, or about 40%, or about 50%, or about 60%, or about 70%, or about 80%, or about 90%, or about 95%, of the length of the retainer portion.

Example 125

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65 or 94-124, wherein the maximum cross-sectional area of the retainer portion is any amount from: (4 mm)²π to (25 mm)²π, or (6 mm)²π to (10 mm)²π, or (5 mm)²π to (10 mm)²π.

Example 126

The catheter system of any of examples 1-65 or 94-126, wherein the retainer portion at the maximum cross-sectional area can be compressed, by a force of an amount selected from the range of: 1 lb. to 10 lbs., or 2 lbs. to 20 lbs.; wherein the force is applied substantially equally to an outer surface of the retainer portion at the maximum cross-sectional area compresses to any percentage of its original cross-sectional area from: 20%-75%.

Example 127

A catheter mating device comprising: a stem having a proximal end and a distal end; and wherein the distal end includes an apparatus having a first configuration with a first cross-sectional area and a second configuration with a second cross-sectional area that is greater than the first cross-sectional area.

Example 128

The catheter mating device of example 127 that further includes a housing at the proximal end of the stem, the housing having a control moveable between a first position and a second position, wherein the apparatus is in its first, retracted position when the control is in its first position, and the apparatus is in its second, expanded position when the control is in its second position.

Example 129

The catheter mating device of example 128, wherein the control is connected to a cylinder that is part of the stem.

Example 130

The catheter mating device of example 128 or 129, wherein the housing comprises a distal end, a proximal end, a cavity, and an opening in the proximal end, wherein the opening communicates with the cavity.

Example 131

The catheter mating device of any of examples 127-130, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of tips moveable from the first, retracted position to the second, expanded position.

Example 132

The catheter mating device of example 131, wherein the apparatus comprises two tips.

Example 133

The catheter mating device of any of examples 127-132, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of tips, and the cylinder is movable between a between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the cylinder in its extended position it contacts the tips and moves them apart and into the second, expanded position.

Example 134

The catheter mating device of example 133, wherein the cylinder has a retracted position in which it does not contact the tips and the tips are in their first position.

Example 135

The catheter mating device of any of examples 128-134, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of tips, and the tips move apart and into the second, expanded position when the control is moved to its second position.

Example 136

The catheter mating device of any of examples 128-135, wherein the control is a slide button on an outside surface of the housing, the slide button moveable between the first position of the control and the second position of the control.

Example 137

The catheter mating device of any of examples 128-136, wherein the housing has a first side and a second side, and the second side has a side opening in communication with the cavity, wherein the control is positioned partially in the cavity and extends through the side opening.

Example 138

The catheter mating device of any of examples 128-137, wherein the proximal end of the stem is positioned inside of the housing.

Example 139

The catheter mating device of any of examples 127-138, wherein the stem has an internal passageway configured to the transport bodily fluid therethrough.

Example 140

The catheter mating device of example 139, wherein the internal passageway is inside of an external wall.

Example 141

The catheter mating device of example 140, wherein the internal passageway is coaxial with the external wall.

Example 142

The catheter mating device of example 139 or 140 that further includes a cylinder internal to the external wall and the internal passageway is between the cylinder and the external wall.

Example 143

The catheter mating device of any of examples 127-142, wherein the distal end of the stem juxtaposed the apparatus has a durometer of 5-65 Shore A greater than the durometer of the external wall.

Example 144

The catheter mating device of any of examples 139-143, wherein when the apparatus is in its second, expanded position, it defines an opening to the internal passageway through which fluid can enter.

Example 145

The catheter mating device of any of examples 127-144 that is connected to a catheter when the apparatus is in its second, expanded position.

Having thus described some embodiments of the invention, other variations and embodiments that do not depart from the spirit of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art. The scope of the present invention is thus not limited to any particular embodiment, but is instead set forth in the appended claims and the legal equivalents thereof. Unless expressly stated in the written description or claims, the steps of any method recited in the claims may be performed in any order capable of yielding the desired result. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating that any non-claimed limitation is included in a claim. The terms “a” and “an” expressly used in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A catheter system comprising: (a) a catheter comprising (i) a tube, the tube having (A) a wall with an outer surface, the outer surface having a first cross-sectional area, (B) a lumen, (C) a distal end with one or more openings in communication with the lumen, and (D) a proximal end with an opening in communication with the lumen, (ii) a valve that is operated to be in (A) a closed configuration, wherein fluid does not flow out of the proximal end, or (B) an open configuration in which fluid does flow out of the proximal end; and (iii) a retainer portion between the distal end and the proximal end, the retainer portion having a maximum cross-sectional area at least twice as great as the first cross-sectional area; and (b) a catheter mating device comprising: a stem having a proximal end and a distal end; wherein the distal end includes an apparatus having (i) a first, retracted configuration, and (ii) a second, expanded configuration; the apparatus being configured to be received in the proximal end of the catheter when in its first, retracted configuration, and configured to engage the proximal end of the catheter when in its second, expanded configuration.
 2. The catheter system of claim 1, wherein the retainer portion has a maximum cross-sectional area that is 2-3 times greater than the first cross-sectional area.
 3. The catheter system of claim 1, wherein the retainer portion has a maximum cross-sectional area that is 1.5-4 times larger than the first cross-sectional area.
 4. The catheter system of claim 1, wherein the retainer portion has a length and the maximum cross-sectional area is at a center of the length.
 5. The catheter system of claim 1, wherein the retainer portion has a length and the maximum cross-sectional area extends along part of the length.
 6. The catheter system of claim 1, wherein the maximum cross-sectional area is an area from: (24 mm)²π to (25 mm)²π, or (4 mm)²π to (25 mm)²π.
 7. The catheter system of claim 1, wherein the retainer portion is circular in cross-section at its maximum cross-sectional area, and has a diameter of 5 mm to 10 mm at the maximum cross-sectional area.
 8. The catheter system of claim 1, wherein the retainer portion has a hardness of an amount from: 1 and 40 Shore A, or 5-15 Shore A, or 10-20 Shore A, or 5-15 Shore A, or 10-15 Shore A.
 9. The catheter system of claim 1, wherein the retainer portion is comprised of silicone.
 10. The catheter system of claim 1, wherein the retainer portion has an outer surface and can be physically compressed to ½ or less of the maximum cross-sectional area when subjected to a compressive force evenly applied along the outer surface of the cross-sectional area of an amount from: 3-5 lbs., or 2-4 lbs., or 2-6 lbs., or 4-6 lbs., or 5-10 lbs., or 7-10 lbs., or 5-22 lbs.
 11. The catheter system of claim 1, wherein the retainer portion is configured to be compressed to have a maximum diameter of 0.3 mm to 8.0 mm when moved through a penile urethra and to have a maximum diameter of 4.0 mm to 15 mm when positioned in the bulbar urethra.
 12. The catheter system of claim 1, wherein the retainer portion includes a passage therethrough and part of the tube is positioned in the passage.
 13. The catheter system of claim 1 that further includes one or more sensors on or in the catheter.
 14. The catheter system of claim 13, wherein the one or more sensors are positioned in a bladder when the catheter is positioned in a lower urinary tract of a human male.
 15. The catheter system of claim 15, wherein the one or more sensors are positioned at least partially in the lumen.
 16. The catheter system of claim 13, wherein the one or more sensors are configured to collect data of the patient, the data comprising one or more of: fluid pressure inside of the bladder, fluid volume inside of the bladder, temperature inside of the bladder, acidity of urine, bacteria level and type in urine, chemical composition of urine, motion of the patient, location of the patient, and fluid flow when emptying the bladder.
 17. The catheter system of claim 1, wherein the catheter mating device further includes a housing connected to the proximal end of the stem.
 18. The catheter system of claim 1, wherein the stem has an internal passageway configured to transport bodily fluid.
 19. The catheter system of claim 17, wherein the housing includes a control having a first position and a second position, and the apparatus is in its first, retracted position when the control is in its first position, and the apparatus is in its second, extended position when the control is in its second position.
 20. The catheter system of claim 19, wherein the control is a slide button on an outside surface of the housing, the slide button moveable between the first position of the control and the second position of the control.
 21. The catheter system of claim 1, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of tips moveable from the first, retracted position to the second, extended position.
 22. The catheter system of claim 21, wherein the apparatus comprises two tips.
 23. The catheter system of claim 19, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of tips, and the tips move apart and into the second, expanded position when the control is moved to its second position.
 24. The catheter system of claim 23 that further includes a cylinder attached to the control, and the cylinder is in a retracted position when the control is in its first position and the cylinder is in an extended position when the control is in its second position, and the cylinder contacts the tips and moves them apart and into the second, expanded position, when the cylinder is in its extended position.
 25. The catheter system of claim 13 that further includes one or more antennas, wherein the antennas are configured to transmit data received from the one or more sensors.
 26. The catheter system of claim 13, wherein the catheter includes a second lumen and the one or more antennas are positioned in the second lumen. 